As reported in the publication [Intelligence Online](https://www.intelligenceonline.com/europe-russia/2026/02/16/us-dutch-veterans-bolster-ukraine-air-force-s-f-16s-in-skies-abov-kyiv,110628200-art), Ukraine created a peculiar air squadron a fewer weeks ago designed to defend the airspace over Kiev. The squadron consists of F-16 aircraft, which are piloted by erstwhile NATO army pilots, including the USA and the Netherlands. These are experienced pilots, acquainted with F-16 fighter service. They have signed six-month contracts with the anticipation of extension according to operational needs. They are not formally soldiers of the Ukrainian Army, nor are they on any authoritative lists.
